Differential Case and Ring Gear - Traction-Lok®: Disassembly

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Mercury Grand Marquis and 2006 Ford Crown Victoria. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING: If equipped with fire suppression system, depower the system. For important safety warnings and procedures, refer to FIRE SUPPRESSION SYSTEM .

Remove the differential assembly from the differential housing. For additional information, refer to DIFFERENTIAL CARRIER .
Remove the differential ring gear bolts.

Fig 1: Removing Differential Ring Gear Bolts
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not damage the bolt hole threads.

Fig 2: Removing Ring Gear

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Insert a punch in the bolt holes and drive off the differential ring gear.
Using the special tools, remove the differential bearings.

Fig 3: Removing Differential Bearings Using Special Tool
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.
Remove the differential pinion shaft bolt and discard. Remove the differential pinion shaft.

Fig 4: Removing Differential Pinion Shaft
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

WARNING: Due to the spring tension, use care when removing the differential clutch spring.

Fig 5: Removing Differential Clutch Spring

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

Remove the differential clutch spring.
Remove the differential gears.
1. Remove the 2 differential pinion gears.
2. Remove the 2 differential side gears.
3. Remove the 2 differential pinion thrust washers.
  
  Fig 6: Removing Differential Gears
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Keep the differential clutch packs in order. Do not mix them. Always reassemble them in the same sequence.

Separate the differential clutch packs and shims from the differential side gears and tag them "right" and "left."
- Clean and inspect the remaining differential components for wear and damage and install new parts as necessary.
  
  Fig 7: Removing Differential Clutch Packs And Shims From Differential Side Gears
  Courtesy of FORD MOTOR CO.

CAUTION: Do not use acids or solvents when cleaning the differential clutch packs. Wipe the components only with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Clean and inspect the differential clutch packs for wear and damage and install new parts as necessary.